"Historically, the making and building of architecture has involved not only formal educational knowledge transfer, but also a more vocational or hands-on teaching or mentoring. The instances where practitioners with experience and perspective lend advice, offer a different point of view, or afford a look into some aspect of our trade are as important to a young professional’s development as the formal studio exercises and class exams. Mentoring on a professional level has shaped our industry for centuries, and will undoubtedly continue to do so well into the future. The successes I have had over the last 25 years of formal architectural education and professional practice are not solely mine. In fact credit must also be given to a handful of people, both educators and professionals, who have helped guide me through the ever changing and constantly challenging world of the design and construction. I could not have taken this journey alone, and I owe a debt of gratitude to those who have taken the time to mentor me."

— PAUL C. (MENTOR)

"Having participated in the Mentorship Program in previous years, I could not recommend this program more highly. The time I spent with my mentors were very valuable and the things I learned extended beyond what could be taught in a classroom or studio setting. I was able to form authentic relationships with professionals that have not only helped me as a student, but even now as a recent alumna and working professional."

— CRYSTAL W (MENTEE)

"The USC Architectural Guild mentorship program allowed me to see a softer, more personal side of the architectural industry by connecting me one-on-one with professionals. I also really appreciated that my mentors helped demystify and ease the transition from academia to the working world."